By Ruth Richter • July 21, 2016

Blog|The Pros and Cons of Buying an Integration Tool versus an Integrated Store

Both integrated stores and integrated tools provide a great deal of useful data to e-commerce businesses. Integrated stores give you one package that includes the e-commerce site and an ERP system. Integration tools synchronize one or more shopping carts and shopping platforms with existing ERP systems such as Sage 100.

Each business owner has to weigh the pros and cons of both according to his or her business needs. Given we are the developers of IN-SYNCH, I am biased, but setting that aside, here’s why I recommend you purchase an integration tool:

  • Integration tools provide flexibility: Improved systems and software are released all the time. When you buy into an integrated store, you’re locked into the complete package. In order to move away from that package, you’ve got to unbundle everything or switch to entirely new systems. Frankly, it’s a pain in the neck. With integration tools, you can switch e-commerce vendors and synchronize data with Sage 100 and other ERP systems fairly easily.
  • Multiple shopping carts can connect: Right now, your business may have just one e-commerce site with a single shopping cart. As you grow, you may need more. Many companies began as just one e-commerce site but bought out competitors, added new ventures, or expanded into new areas, thus creating multiple websites and the possibility of many different e-commerce systems. If you’ve got multiple sites, each using different carts, using tools like IN-SYNCH can make Sage 100 integration a lot easier.  That’s something we can help you with.
  • Expertise = Lower Costs: Unless you are able to pay top dollar for your integrated e-commerce site, companies on a budget should shy away from purchasing a website from a business who says they also integrate with Sage 100.  Integrating with Sage 100 takes a combination of Sage 100 and integration expertise, as well as experience.  We’ve been performing integrations using IN-SYNCH for just under 20 years and our customers benefit by receiving a solid, feature-rich and scalable solution for a competitive price. You do get what you pay for when it comes to Sage 100 integration.

Having worked in this field now for many years, I can tell you that I’ve seen many companies try integrated stores and are so happy to find our flexible model that enables them to have their e-commerce platforms synchronized with Sage 100.

You’ve got to do what’s right for your business, but if you really want to grow, go for the most flexible option. Sage 100 integration is a lot simpler and more cost effective than locking yourself into one platform and package.

ROI Consulting for Sage 100 Integration

ROI can help you choose the right tools for a new e-commerce site or guide you through the selection of tools to revise an existing site. We’ve helped many online retailers choose the tools and systems they need to better manage their businesses. For more information on Sage 100 integration services and products, contact ROI or call 402-934-2223 x1.